updated 09:55 pm EDT, Mon September 13, 2010

Up-front pricing normally $300

TiVo has continued to expand the pricing options for its range of set-top boxes. Customers can now obtain the TiVo Premiere for $0 up front, as long as the device is tied to a two-year contract priced at $19.95 each month. Paying $99 only requires the subscriber to maintain a single year of $19.95 monthly payments.

For a contract-free purchase, customers can buy the Premier for $300 and pay $12.95 for monthly service. The promotions appear to be a better deal, as customers only pay a $168 for the extra $7/month spread across two years.

Taking a closer look at the fine print reveals TiVo's business strategy. After the two- or one-year commitments expire, the company will keep charging $19.95 each month until the customer cancels their subscription or resigns for a lower rate. [viaZatz Not Funny]